Why a pregnancy may be high risk
Possible reasons for your partner having a higher risk pregnancy include:
Your partner’s care
If your partner needs extra care, the doctor or midwife will make sure you both understand why. They will talk through your partner’s care options and answer your questions.
The doctor or midwife will usually advise your partner to give birth in a hospital that has the medical equipment and doctors they may need. But it is your partner’s choice where they give birth.
Coping with a higher-risk pregnancy
It’s natural to feel worried or uncertain about your partner and baby. Your partner will have extra appointments during pregnancy to check that all is well and pick up any problems early on. These appointments are a good opportunity to ask about anything that’s worrying you.
Taking time off work
If your partner needs to spend time in hospital during pregnancy, it can feel difficult to cope with the extra demands on you. You may need to take time off work to visit your partner or care for older children. You may also want to go with your partner to the extra appointments and scans. This can lead to financial difficulties.
You have the right to take unpaid time off work to go to 2 antenatal appointments. Speak to your employer about your options for taking time off work. You could ask to use your annual leave or make up the time later.
More support and information
Maternity Action has information for fathers and partners about work and benefits.
